“Inadequate access to safe water and sanitation services sickens and kills thousands of children every day, and leads to poverty across the globe,” Durbin said in a joint statement.

ADVERTISEMENT

“But this is no longer simply a global health and development issue — it’s a long-term problem that increasingly threatens our national security. The Senate agreed unanimously and passed this legislation today and I hope the President will quickly sign it before the crisis reaches a devastating tipping point.”

"A water bill. A nice little water bill, uncontroversial,” McCain said of the Dec. 4 hearing. “An obscure water bill! I mean, you can't make that up! Where in that little book on how the laws are made does it say water bill, get a declaration of war? It's ludicrous. It's a living, breathing argument against lame-duck sessions."

Paul's attempt failed, and the committee passed the bill, which was approved by the full Senate late Monday. It now heads to the president's desk for signature.

“I'm pleased lawmakers from both chambers agree that investing in water can make the most of existing foreign aid resources. These programs bring life-saving water and sanitation to vulnerable people around the globe, helping to support improved health and stability in these communities,” Corker said.

According to the statement, nearly 750 million people around the world lack access to clean, safe water, and nearly 2.5 billion people lack access to basic sanitation, many living on $2 a day.